Help prevent the spread of COVID-19 in King County

Seattle Department of Neighborhoods Front Desk Closed

The City of Seattle continues to follow the guidance of public health officials at Public Health - Seattle & King County and the Washington State Department of Health. To prevent spread of COVID-19 the City of Seattle has temporarily closed all public facing service counters. Our office is located on the 4th Floor of Seattle City Hall. Payments or applications may be deposited in the drop box below the front desk window. Our staff will check for and collect submittals throughout the day.

Historic Preservation

Due to impacts of COVID-19, Seattle City Council approved emergency legislation on April 27 which allows minor project applications such as changes to signage, awnings, and storefronts be reviewed administratively by Historic Preservation Program staff until late October. New construction, demolition, and major redevelopment proposals are not eligible for administrative (staff) approval, so review of these projects will be postponed until late June or until the Historic Preservation Boards or Commissions are able to convene their meetings either in person or virtually through video conferencing.

The current Certificate of Approval application submittal process remains in place for all proposed changes to individual landmarks and properties within the city's eight historic districts. Please contact the relevant coordinator for more information.

Seattle’s eight historic districts and more than 400 structures, sites, and objects of historic, cultural, architectural, and social importance are valuable cultural assets. Through the process of designating and protecting new and existing districts and landmarks, we work with community members to promote the aesthetic, cultural, and economic strength of Seattle.

Historic preservation in Seattle begins with community. Our historic resources provide tangible connections to the people and events that have shaped our communities and our collective histories. Learn more about the City of Seattle's Historic Preservation program and how you can get involved by watching our video below.

Top Requests

Seattle Department of Neighborhoods provides resources and opportunities for community members to build strong communities and improve their quality of life. Through our programs and services, we meet people where they are and help neighbors develop a stronger sense of place, build closer ties, and engage with their community and city government.